Category Archives: Ben Carson

This small rugged state teeming with presidential aspirants offers visitors unique proximity to question, praise, berate or hug the next American president.

The presidential campaign has been running in high gear for months, but New Yorkers see it only from afar. Candidate visits to New York are almost entirely out of public view, primarily for fundraising and TV appearances. New Yorkers hoping to see candidates in person can visit campaign country, however, with New Hampshire the closest corner of campaign country and just a short drive away.

Sunday 8:15 a.m. – On The Road

Meet a fellow reporter just north of New York City and drive through western Connecticut north into Massachusetts. Watch for the plentiful state troopers on I-91. Don’t let the genius political arguments bandied about distract you from the speedometer.

Sunday 11:00 a.m. – Your New Friend Irving

A stop awaits before the first campaign event – a visit to an Irving, the ubiquitous gas station/convenience store. Gourmet it’s not, but Irving offers a quick, clean stop for hot coffee, cold seltzer and a cellophane wrapped sandwich. With lots of driving between five events efficiency is a key to success. Pro-tip: Always get two sandwiches, one for now, one to tuck in your bag for a pre-candidate town hall boost.

Sunday 1:00 p.m. – Dr. Ben Carson

Keene State College is dead quiet on a Sunday morning, notwithstanding an imminent presidential candidate appearance. With Secret Service protection and security screenings for Carson, entering his town hall is a lengthier process. About 30 minutes ahead of his town hall, only 30 or so people are in the auditorium. “Don’t worry, they’ll be here after church” says an early arrival and indeed a crowd of 200+ materialized by 1:00. Chatting with attendees it appears that his audience is significantly centered around faith, both their own and Carson’s.